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Writer's pictureHow To Age Your Way

Essential Terms for Families Caring for Aging Parents

Updated: Jul 11


As our population ages, the responsibility of caring for aging parents falls increasingly on the shoulders of families. According to a report from the Health and Human Services, an estimated 7 out of 10 people will require long-term care in their lifetime. With about 38 million family caregivers in the U.S. providing unpaid care valued at about $600 billion a year, understanding essential caregiving terms becomes paramount in accessing necessary services and managing expenses effectively.


Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

When it comes to providing care for aging parents, understanding Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is crucial. These encompass essential tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, medication management, toileting, and transferring from one place to another. By recognizing the level of assistance required for these activities, families can better assess the type and extent of care needed for their loved ones.


Continuous Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs):

Continuous Care Retirement Communities offer a comprehensive solution for aging parents requiring varying levels of care. These communities provide a continuum of care within one campus, ranging from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing care. This setup offers flexibility, allowing aging parents to transition between different levels of care as their needs evolve.


Medicare and Medicaid:

Understanding the coverage provided by Medicare and Medicaid is essential for managing the costs associated with long-term care. While Medicare offers limited coverage for long-term care services, it's crucial to examine the specific services covered under the plan. On the other hand, Medicaid may cover long-term care expenses for individuals with low incomes and minimal savings. Knowing the eligibility criteria and coverage options can significantly impact financial planning for caregiving.


Long-Term Care Insurance:

Long-term care insurance policies provide a financial safety net for families facing the expenses of caregiving. These policies typically cover a range of services, including at-home care, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, and hospice. Understanding the terms and coverage of these policies is essential for families to make informed decisions about their financial planning for long-term care.


Respite Care:

Caring for aging parents can be emotionally and physically demanding for family caregivers. Respite care offers a temporary reprieve, allowing caregivers to take a break and recharge. Options for respite care include adult day care centers, professional in-home care, or short stays in assisted care residences. Exploring these options helps alleviate the stress associated with caregiving while ensuring the well-being of both the caregiver and the aging parent.


In conclusion, navigating the complexities of caregiving for aging parents requires understanding essential terms and options available for managing expenses and accessing services. By familiarizing themselves with Activities of Daily Living, Continuous Care Retirement Communities, Medicare, Medicaid, Long-Term Care Insurance, and Respite Care, families can make informed decisions to provide the best possible care for their loved ones while mitigating financial burdens.

I urge you to join the NAIPC National Aging in Place Council to help us build a better aging community. 


Written by: Heather Brooks - How 2 Age Your Way

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